5 Reasons Why Jared Allen Signed With Chicago Bears

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The Chicago Bears made arguably the biggest splash in free agency this past Wednesday when they agreed to terms with former Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen. A number of teams had a chance to get their hands on the four-time All-Pro, but the Windy City seemed to be the most attractive opportunity for Allen. I’m sure there were numerous reasons why Allen chose the Bears, but here are my five reasons why Allen is in Chicago.

5. The Bears’ 4-3 Alignment

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5. The Bears’ 4-3 Alignment

Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

Guess it was a good decision by the Bears to stick with their 4-3 defensive alignment. This is what Allen has thrived on throughout his career in the NFL. Had Chicago converted to a 3-4, the Bears wouldn’t have been an option for Allen during free agency.

4. Jay Cutler and Bears’ Offense

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4. Jay Cutler and Bears’ Offense

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Allen didn’t have many chances to play with a highly-talented quarterback. Only Brett Favre falls in that category. Jay Cutler and the number of potent weapons in Chicago’s offense definitely will take some of the pressure off of Allen and the rest of the defense in 2014.

3. Familiarity with NFC North

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3. Familiarity with NFC North

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Allen has spent the last six seasons in the trenches against the NFC North while with the Vikings. Since entering the division in 2008, 44 of Allen’s 88.5 sacks have been against NFC North opponents. I’m sure continuing to see familiar foes played a part in his decision to play in Chicago, as well as multiple opportunities to face his former team.

2. Money

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2. Money

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According to reports, the Oakland Raiders offered Allen a deal that would have paid the Pro Bowler million a year, which was the biggest contract presented to Allen. The Seattle Seahawks and Dallas Cowboys also were in the hunt for the 11-year veteran. However, the four-year, million contract with .5 million guaranteed was enough to put a smile on Allen’s face.

1. Playoff Contender

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1. Playoff Contender

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Yes, Chicago hasn’t been in the postseason since 2010, but the past two years the Bears were in the playoff hunt leading up to the final week of the regular season. The addition of Allen and the number of other defensive free agents will help give the team a more than solid complement to Chicago’s explosive offense. This should be a recipe for a playoff berth.